Govt must explain savings from fuel subsidy removal – Nigerians react to FG’s petrol discount

Many motorists, commuters, and stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions following the Federal Government’s announcement of a 30-day petrol discount at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd, NNPCL, filling stations.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele on Thursday announced the discount on petrol prices and subsidy-related issues in Abuja.

Oyedele said the arrangement would run for 30 days, with public transport operators receiving priority nationwide.

A cross section of Nigerians who spoke to DAILY POST demanded that the Federal Government explains what it has used the savings from the removal of fuel subsidy for.

A motorist who resides in Mararaba, an outskirt of the FCT in Nasarawa State, Mustapha Ali, said the measure would reduce transportation costs and ease the financial pressure on households.

“This will also provide relief amid rising petrol prices,” he said.

Another motorist in the same area, Ekoja Anebi, applauded the development but said Nigerians do not know the actual discount consumers would receive and how it would translate into lower transport fares.

“What is really the meaning of this discount? How can a common man understand this? They should just bring this fuel price to N500. We have suffered enough,” he said.

On his part, Mike Akor, a resident, demanded transparency in the use of the proceeds gotten from the removal of fuel subsidy since the coming on board of the current administration.

“Government must explain where the savings from petrol subsidy removal have gone, how much was realised, and what measurable improvements will reach the ordinary Nigerians,” he said.